We are thrilled to announce the shortlisted nominees for the 2025 Making Music Awards, followed by a celebratory evening on Wednesday 24 September...
Public voting for the Making Music President's Award is now open - help us celebrate the amazing volunteers of Making Music member groups.
The President's Award, an integral part of the Making Music awards, recognises volunteers who have given exceptional service to any Making Music member group. This could be for a short-term exceptional effort, or a longer-term achievement, and it could recognise an individual or a group of volunteers (e.g. a committee).
It has been difficult whittling down the nomination list, as each candidate presented a remarkable story of supporting their music group. Below is our shortlist of four nominations - find out who they are, read their stories and vote for the one who stands out to you. Winners will be announced at the Making Music awards ceremony on Wednesday 24 September 2024.
Cast your votes by Monday 22 September 9am!
2025 President’s Award shortlist:
Roger Cooper (nominated by Cantorion Menai)
'Roger’s passion is making music, so much so that he is a member (and secretary) of 3 choirs. He became secretary of Cantorion Menai in 2016. Since then his gentle and calm manner have efficiently steered the Choir e.g. through the difficult time post-covid by arranging and ensuring all the regulations were meticulously adhered to. His remit is endless and includes e.g. liaising with senior officers at University and Cathedral for detailed venue arrangements - including changing rooms, parking, etc; communicating with artistes/agents; risk assessments; ordering music copies/scores; moving chairs etc etc. His attention to detail is amazing e.g. he ensures copies are ordered within the ‘cheapest’ timescale and returned promptly. (...) Roger’s quiet, pleasant and courteous manner has endeared him to all. At the age of 85 and with caring responsibilities, he is retiring from the secretarial role. Recognition from Making Music would be a fitting crown to his service in making music.'
Read the full testimonial
Find out more about Cantorion Menai on their website and follow them on Facebook
Anne Henderson (nominated by Strathaven Choral Society)
'For well over a decade, Anne has been the beating heart of Strathaven Choral Society. First as Secretary then as Concert Secretary, her commitment, care, and calm leadership have been central to our success and continuity. She has gone above and beyond the typical expectations of a volunteer, not only managing the organisation of concerts, but also nurturing the spirit of the group through her empathy, generosity and warmth.'
Read the full testimonial
Find out more about Strathaven Choral Society on their website and follow them on Facebook / X (Twitter)
David Perfect (nominated by Merton Concert Band)
'David stepped in as Chairman halfway through 2023 and remains in this role to date. He is a driving force in getting things done, steering our Committee to agree a logo, update our website and source band equipment. He is always willing to help, whatever the request; if you want something done, he’s the person to ask. David is losing his sight. Throughout 2024 David religiously took home his music every week, practising for hours every day so that he would be able to play the music at the following rehearsal – a real testament to his determination to do a good job and be part of our group. Sadly he had to retire from playing the tuba in December as he could no longer see adequately, even with hours of practice. This was particularly painful for him as he loves to play and sad for the band, who miss both his invaluable playing and humorous presence in rehearsals. David continues to be a dedicated Chairman despite stepping back from our rehearsals, and we would like to recognise him for his ongoing dedication to Merton Concert Band.'
Read the full testimonial
Find out more about Merton Concert Band on their website and follow them on Facebook
Jennifer Carson-Fox (nominated by Affinity Show Choir)
'Jenny has always been instrumental in the development of the choir and continues to support every singer she encounters while juggling family life and running a successful business. Jenny is Affinities assistant director and tenor section leader, and took 4 years training to qualify as a Labbs singing judge, while still volunteering as assistant director of Beechwood choir. In 2017 Affinity was preparing for a major contest when director Lesley had an accident. Jenny as assistant, was well prepared to take the lead , she would have loved the opportunity but gave it up as it would leave the choir top sop light, so coach Andrew stepped in. This is a pattern for Jenny,
she has never put her own needs above that of the choir. Jen always willing to give time to help, not just Affinity and the Beechwood choir, but any other group or individual she can. She's direct but enabling, especially towards novice singers, a real unsung gem who deserves recognition.'
Read the full testimonial
Find out more about Affinity Show Choir on their website and follow them on Facebook
Peter Cross and Tony Tripp (nominated by Wimbledon Community Chorus)
'Peter and Tony are founder members of WCC and its hard-working, dedicated committee, joining the basses for our first rehearsal in September 2011. Their enthusiasm and warm, welcoming natures contributed significantly to quickly building a large tenor and bass section - a huge achievement! Both are active members of the committee, spending countless hours ensuring that members have the information they need, resources are accessible and rehearsals and concerts run smoothly, from rearranging countless chairs and sorting IT to running the bar! In 2020, Peter spent countless hours helping members access Zoom, whilst Tony kept in touch with members via regular emails and calls. Peter learned to use software to enable the choir to 'perform' pieces together. They have continued to Zoom rehearsals, so members can revise or catch up on any sessions missed. Tony recently undertook the time-consuming task of moving our website to the MM platform and rebuilding content, so the choir has a more functional and professional presence.'
Read the full testimonial
Find out more about Wimbledon Community Chorus on their website and follow them on Facebook / Instagram
Cast your votes by Monday 22 September 9am!
Find out the winner of the President’s Award, along with all the other Making Music awards, at our online ceremony on Wednesday 24 September. You don't have to be a member to attend – book your free place now and get the champagne ready!
